As development and PR manager at Susan G. Komen Memorial, Katie Cox works tirelessly to better the lives of breast cancer survivors across central Illinois. In assuming this position, she took on additional fundraising and development responsibilities while continuing to spearhead marketing and promotional efforts in support of the organization’s mission. Among her major projects, Cox worked to implement the Komen Café program and the Walk a Mile Club to support local survivors, and she developed the monthly Coffee With Komen initiative, allowing her team to stay connected with its constituents.
Cox is responsible for managing media opportunities and communications for the Peoria, Springfield and Bloomington/Normal MORE THAN PINK Walks; securing in-kind donations to increase participant fundraising; and building strong relationships with sponsors. Her creative strategies have substantially increased sales and revenue for the annual Pink Promise fashion show, and she recently developed the Central Illinois “Big Wigs” campaign, a unique initiative which nearly doubled its fundraising goal.
As founder and director of the Central Illinois Young Breast Cancer Survivors group, Cox convenes over 200 women on a private social media platform, allowing them to share their unique concerns of being diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age. She also serves as a Mentor Angel to survivors across the country for Imerman Angels and is the past state leader of the Young Survival Coalition.
A member of the OSF Breast Program Leadership Committee and the planning committee for the UnityPoint Health National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, Cox received the Barbara B. Walvoord Inspirational Award from the Hult Center for Healthy Living for her efforts to bring together young survivors. She also has assumed leadership roles with the Public Relations Association of Central Illinois, currently serving as president; volunteers with Stray Animal Midway Shelter; and actively supports the community work of other young professionals through Build Peoria and St. Jude. PM
